Breakdancing

Definition

Breakdancing, also known as b-boying or b-girling, is a street dance style that originated in the 1970s in the South Bronx of New York City. It combines elements of acrobatics, gymnastics, and dance, characterized by intricate footwork, spins, and freezes. The cultural roots of breakdancing are intertwined with hip-hop culture, which encompasses music, fashion, and visual art, reflecting a broader movement that emerged during this vibrant time in urban America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breakdancing gained widespread popularity through competitions and battles, where dancers showcase their skills and creativity against each other.
2. The dance style includes various moves such as toprock (standing footwork), downrock (footwork on the ground), power moves (acrobatic spins and flips), and freezes (holding a pose).
3. In the early 1980s, breakdancing became a significant aspect of mainstream pop culture, appearing in films like 'Flashdance' and 'Beat Street'.
4. Competitions often highlight community and camaraderie among dancers, as they encourage respect and appreciation for each other's styles and abilities.
5. In 2020, breakdancing was officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee as a competitive sport for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Review Questions

• How did breakdancing emerge from hip-hop culture and what role did it play in the expression of urban youth during the 1970s?
  • Breakdancing emerged as a key component of hip-hop culture in the 1970s, serving as an artistic outlet for urban youth in the South Bronx. It allowed dancers to express their creativity and individuality while also providing a sense of community among those involved in hip-hop. The dance style reflected the social conditions of the time, as it provided a means for young people to assert their identity through physical movement and competition.
• Analyze how breakdancing has influenced contemporary dance forms and its representation in popular media.
  • Breakdancing has significantly influenced contemporary dance forms by introducing elements of street dance into various performance styles. Its representation in popular media, especially during the 1980s with movies like 'Flashdance', helped legitimize street dancing as an art form. As a result, many contemporary dancers incorporate breakdancing techniques into their routines, blurring the lines between traditional dance and street styles, which has broadened the appeal and acceptance of these movements in mainstream culture.
• Evaluate the impact of breakdancing's inclusion in the Olympics on its cultural significance and future development as a dance form.
  • The inclusion of breakdancing in the Olympics marks a pivotal moment for its cultural significance, elevating it from street corners and underground battles to a global stage. This recognition can bring greater visibility to the dance form and its practitioners while potentially influencing its evolution by incorporating competitive elements. However, it also raises concerns about commercialization and authenticity within the art form, prompting discussions about how to maintain its roots while adapting to new platforms for expression.

Related terms

Hip-Hop Culture: A cultural movement that began in the 1970s in the Bronx, encompassing four main elements: rapping, DJing, graffiti art, and breakdancing.

Popping: A street dance style that involves quick contraction and relaxation of muscles to create a jerking effect in the dancer's body movements.

B-boy/B-girl: Terms used to refer to male (b-boy) and female (b-girl) dancers who practice breakdancing, often showcasing their skills in battles or cyphers.